Games Art

Games art is the creative discipline at the heart of the visual identity of video games, producing the characters, environments, props, visual effects and user interface elements that make game worlds feel real, compelling and immersive. Games artists must combine strong artistic skills in drawing, design and colour with the technical ability to work in 3D modelling software, game engines and the production pipelines used by professional studios. The quality of art direction and visual execution has become a major competitive factor in the games industry, and the demand for skilled games artists is strong and growing.

At Leeds Arts University this three-year, full-time programme focuses on bringing game worlds to life through captivating visuals, providing a collaborative platform where games artists can showcase creativity and contribute to immersive gaming experiences within a community of diverse creatives. Leeds Arts University's identity as a specialist creative institution means you are studying in an environment dedicated entirely to the arts, surrounded by students and staff who share your commitment to creative excellence. You will develop your artistic and technical skills across character design, environment art, concept art, texturing, lighting and the use of industry-standard tools, building a professional portfolio that demonstrates your range and quality to potential employers.

Graduates of games art programmes work as character artists, environment artists, concept artists, texture artists, technical artists, visual effects artists and art directors across console, PC, mobile and online game studios. Many also apply their visual skills in adjacent fields including film and television animation and visual effects, architectural visualisation, virtual and augmented reality development and digital illustration. Some graduates build freelance practices or continue to postgraduate study in games design, fine art or visual communication.